Device for delivery of oxidizing agents to barrier membranes

ABSTRACT

The present invention features a method of treating infection in a barrier membrane by applying to the membrane a device having a barrier membrane contacting surface that administers an oxidizing agent to the barrier membrane, wherein the device contains: a power source; a first conductive electrode, wherein the first conductive electrode is an inert anode; a second conductive electrode, wherein the second conductive electrode is a cathode; and a carrier containing water; wherein the power source is in electric communication with the first conductive electrode and the second conductive electrode, wherein the first conductive electrode is in ionic communication with the carrier, wherein the oxidizing agent is generated by electric current passing from the first conductive electrode through the carrier, and wherein the carrier is in communication with the barrier membrane contacting surface.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for application to abarrier membrane.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Transdermal devices have been widely prescribed for decades inthe treatment of is systemic diseases and local conditions. Duringpassive transdermal delivery, an active agent is delivered into a mammalby using a concentration gradient across a barrier membrane (e.g.,through passive diffusion through skin). For example, a patch containingthe drug in high concentration is affixed to the skin of a patient.

[0003] Electricity may be employed to facilitate drug transport acrossthe skin barrier. In electricity-assisted devices, an electric potential(voltage) is applied to the membrane to facilitate drug transport. Intransdermal iontophoresis, an ionized drug migrates into the skin drivenby an applied electric potential gradient. Anionic drugs are deliveredinto the skin under the cathode (negatively charged electrode), whilecationic drugs are delivered under the anode (positively chargedelectrode). Iontophoresis enables enhanced as well as better control ofpermeation rate of the ionic species into the skin.

[0004] The most common design of an iontophoresis device includes apower source (e.g., a battery), an electric control mechanism, and twoseparate conductive electrodes. Each conductive electrode is in contactwith a separate electrolyte composition (with or without an activeagent). The electrolyte or ionic active composition is generally eitheran aqueous solution contained in a liquid chamber or a semi-solid. Theassembly of the conductive electrode and electrolyte composition isoften referred to as “an electrode assembly” or simply “an electrode.”The two electrode assemblies are usually affixed to the skin separatedby electric insulation between them.

[0005] Alternatively, the two electrode assemblies may be constructedinto a single iontophoresis device with an electric insulating materialbuilt between the two electrode assemblies for electrical isolation toprevent shorting current. An example of such an iontophoresis device isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,387,189.

[0006] In another variation of the common iontophoresis device designs,the electrolyte composition in one of the two electrode assemblies iseliminated, and the conductive electrode is placed directly in contactwith the skin to complete the electric circuit. An example of suchiontophoresis device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,385,487.

[0007] During a typical iontophoresis operation (mono-polar operation),one of the two electrodes (i.e., active electrode) drives the activeagent into the skin. The other electrode (i.e., disperse electrode)serves to close the electrical circuit through the skin. Sometimes, asecond active agent of opposite electric charge can be placed intoelectrolyte composition in contact with the second electrode, thus,being delivered into the skin under the second electrode. Alternatively,the electric polarity of the first and second electrodes can be reversedperiodically to drive ionic species under both electrodes (bi-polaroperation). A bi-polar iontophoresis device for transdermal drugdelivery is disclosed U.S. Pat. No. 4,406,658.

[0008] Acne and rosacea are major diseases of the skin associated withsebaceous follicles on the skin. There are many treatments, but no curesfor acne or rosacea. Such treatments for acne include antibiotics (whichkill or inhibit growth of p. acnes bacteria which play a role in acne),retinoids such as tretinoin and isotetinoin, antimicrobials such asbenzoyl peroxide, and keratolytic agents such as salicylic acid. Rosaceacan be treated with antibiotics, sulfur, sodium sulfacetamide, andretinoids. The present invention relates to a device that can be used totreat acne or rosacea, or other conditions that affect barriermembranes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] In one aspect, the present invention features a device having abarrier membrane contacting surface, the device containing: a powersource; a first conductive electrode; a second conductive electrode; anda carrier; wherein the power source is in electric communication withthe first conductive electrode and the second conductive electrode,wherein the first conductive electrode and the second conductiveelectrode are in ionic communication with the carrier, and wherein thecarrier is in communication with the barrier membrane contactingsurface. In another aspect, the present invention features a method ofadministering electricity to a human barrier membrane by applying to themembrane such a device. In another aspect, the present inventionfeatures a method of treating a skin condition by applying to the skinsuch a device.

[0010] In another aspect, the present invention features a device havinga barrier membrane contacting surface, the device containing: a powersource; a first conductive electrode; a second conductive electrode; anda carrier containing an active agent; wherein the power source is inelectric communication with the first conductive electrode and thesecond conductive electrode, wherein the first conductive electrode andthe second conductive electrode are in ionic communication with thecarrier, and wherein the carrier is in communication with the barriermembrane contacting surface. In another aspect, the present inventionfeatures a method of administering electricity to a human barriermembrane by applying to the membrane such a device. In another aspect,the present invention features a method of treating a skin condition byapplying to the skin such a device.

[0011] In another aspect, the present invention features a device havinga barrier membrane contacting surface, the device containing: a powersource; a first conductive electrode; a second conductive electrode; afirst light emitting diode; and a carrier containing an active agent;wherein the power source is in electric communication with the firstconductive electrode, the second conductive electrode, and the lightemitting diode, and wherein the device is arranged such that light fromthe first light emitting diode and the carrier are in communication withthe barrier membrane contacting surface. In another aspect, the presentinvention features a method of administering an active agent to a humanbarrier membrane by applying to the membrane such a device. In anotheraspect, the present invention features a method of treating a skincondition by applying to the skin such a device.

[0012] In another aspect, the present invention features a method oftreating a skin condition by applying to the skin a device having abarrier membrane contacting surface that administers an oxidizing agentto the barrier membrane, wherein the device contains: a power source; afirst conductive electrode, wherein the first conductive electrode is aninert anode; a second conductive electrode, wherein the secondconductive electrode is a cathode; and a carrier containing water;wherein the power source is in electric communication with the firstconductive electrode and the second conductive electrode, wherein thefirst conductive electrode is in ionic communication with the carrier,wherein the oxidizing agent is generated by electric current passingfrom the first conductive electrode through the carrier, and wherein thecarrier is in communication with the barrier membrane contactingsurface. In another aspect, the present invention features a method ofadministering an oxidizing agent to a barrier membrane by applying tothe membrane such a device.

[0013] In another aspect, the present invention features a method oftreating a skin condition by applying to the skin a device having abarrier membrane contacting surface that administers a reducing agent tothe barrier membrane, wherein the device contains: a power source; afirst conductive electrode, wherein the first conductive electrode is aninert cathode; a second conductive electrode, wherein the secondconductive electrode is a anode; and a carrier containing water; whereinthe power source is in electric communication with the first conductiveelectrode and the second conductive electrode, wherein the firstconductive electrode is in ionic communication with the carrier, whereinthe reducing agent is generated by electric current passing from thefirst conductive electrode through the carrier, and wherein the carrieris in communication with the barrier membrane contacting surface. Inanother aspect, the present invention features a method of administeringan reducing agent to a barrier membrane by applying to the membrane sucha device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014]FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the devicesuitable for practicing the invention. The battery 320 is located at theback of the device 500.

[0015]FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment in accordancewith the invention. The battery 320 is embedded in the carrier layer 120of the device 500.

[0016]FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment in accordancewith the invention. The battery 320 is embedded in the carrier layer 120that is enclosed in a chamber 160 with an opening affixed to the releaseliner 100 with an adhesive layer 130.

[0017]FIG. 4 is a top view of one embodiment in accordance with theinvention showing the conductive electrodes 140 and 240 and carrierlayer 120.

[0018]FIG. 5 is a top view of one embodiment in accordance with theinvention showing the conductive electrodes 140 and 240 and carrierlayer 120.

[0019]FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment in accordancewith the invention. The device 800 contains two electrode assemblies 200and 600.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] It is believed that one skilled in the art can, based upon thedescription herein, utilize the present invention to its fullest extent.The following specific embodiments are to be construed as merelyillustrative, and not limitative of the remainder of the disclosure inany way whatsoever.

[0021] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms usedherein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinaryskill in the art to which the invention belongs. Also, all publications,patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein areincorporated by reference. Unless otherwise indicated, a percentagerefers to a percentage by weight (i.e., % (W/W)).

[0022] What is meant by a “product” is a product containing the devicein finished packaged form. In one embodiment, the product containsinstructions directing the user to apply the device to the barriermembrane (e.g., to treat a skin condition). Such instructions may beprinted on the device, label insert, or on any additional packaging.

[0023] In one aspect, the present invention features promoting a deviceof the present invention for its intended use. What is meant by“promoting” is promoting, advertising, or marketing. Examples ofpromoting include, but are not limited to, written, visual, or verbalstatements made on the product or in stores, magazines, newspaper,radio, television, internet, and the like.

[0024] As used herein, “pharmaceutically-acceptable” means that theingredients which the term describes are suitable for use in contactwith the barrier membrane (e.g., the skin or mucosa) without unduetoxicity, incompatibility, instability, irritation, allergic response,and the like.

[0025] As used herein, “safe and effective amount” means an amount ofthe ingredient or of the composition sufficient to provide the desiredbenefit at a desired level, but low enough to avoid serious sideeffects. The safe and effective amount of the ingredient or compositionwill vary with the area being treated, the age and skin type of the enduser, the duration and nature of the treatment, the specific ingredientor composition employed, the particular cosmetically-acceptable carrierutilized, and like factors.

[0026] As used herein, the term “treatment” means the treatment (e.g.,alleviation or elimination of symptoms and/or cure) and/or prevention orinhibition of the condition (e.g., a skin condition). What is meant by a“skin condition” is a dermatological disease or disorder (including, butnot limited, acne, rosacea, or skin infections) or skin characteristic(including, but not limited to, pigmentation, hair growth regulation,skin texture, skin firmness, skin elasticity, skin vasculature, darkcircles, cellulite, sebum regulation, and skin shine).

[0027] The present invention relates to a device for the delivery ofelectricity (e.g., to induce a desirable biological response) and/or anactive agent into a barrier membrane. In one embodiment, the device ofthe present invention is a self-contained device containing a battery aspower source and two conductive electrodes in electric communicationwith the positive and negative poles of the battery. By “electriccommunication” is meant that electrons can pass between the elements ofthe device (e.g., between the power source and an conductive electrodeof the device).

[0028] In one embodiment, the two conductive electrodes are in ioniccommunication with the carrier containing an electrolyte. By “ioniccommunication” it meant that ions of one or more electrolytes in thecarrier are in contact with the conductive electrode. This electrodeconfiguration differs from those in conventional iontophoresis devicesin which each conductive electrode is in contact with a separate carrier(e.g., each electrode is contained in a separate compartment and affixedto the skin with electric insulation between them in order that all theelectric current travels through the skin to complete the electriccircuit). An advantage of such an embodiment of the present inventionincludes the capability of delivering simultaneously active agents ofopposite charges from the same carrier into substantially the same skinsite under the conductive electrodes.

[0029] The device contains a barrier membrane contacting surface. Thedevice is arranged such that carrier is in communication with thebarrier membrane contacting surface (e.g., such that electricity and/orthe active agent may be administered from the carrier into the barriermembrane). In one embodiment, the carrier is the barrier membranecontacting surface (e.g., the carrier is a hydrogel). In one embodiment,the device contains a light emitting diode such that light from thelight emitting diode is in communication with the barrier membranecontacting surface (e.g., such that the light may be administered to thebarrier membrane).

[0030] In one embodiment, the device of the present invention deliversan active agent into the barrier membrane. The active agents to bedelivered by the device of the present invention include active agentseither initially incorporated in the carrier or electrochemicallygenerated by the electric current passing from a conductive electrodethrough the carrier during use.

[0031] Power Source

[0032] The power source may be conventional direct current (DC) orpulsed DC, such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,042,975. In oneembodiment, the current density to be used by the device in the presentinvention (current intensity per unit area of the barrier membrane) isgenerally less than about 0.5 mA/cm², such as less than about 0.1 mA/cm²or less than about 0.05 mA/cm². In one embodiment, the power sourceproduces a voltage of from about 0.1 volts to about 9 volts, such asfrom about 1 to about 3 volts, such as about 1.5 volts.

[0033] In one embodiment, the power source is a battery (e.g., arechargeable or disposable battery). In one embodiment, the battery is adisposable battery of small size suitable for a wearable patch or facialmask type adhesive device. Examples of suitable batteries include, butnot limited to, button or coin batteries such as silver oxide, lithium,and zinc air batteries (which are typically used in small electronicdevices). A zinc air battery is preferred because of its small size andhigh energy density, as well as its environmental friendliness. Examplesof zinc air batteries include, but are not limited to, Energizer™AC5 andAC10/230 (Eveready Battery Co. Inc., St. Louis, Mo.). Another preferredbattery for the device is a flexible thin layer open liquid stateelectrochemical cell battery, such as a battery described in U.S. Pat.No. 5,897,522.

[0034] Carrier

[0035] The carrier of the present invention is a liquid (e.g., asolution, a suspension, or an emulsion which may be immobilized withinan absorbent material such as gauze or non-woven pad), a semi-solid(e.g., a gel, a cream, a lotion, microemulsion, or hydrogel), or a solid(e.g., a lyophilized composition which may be reconstituted by adding aliquid prior to use) that during use is capable of conductingelectricity from a conducting electrode (e.g., the carrier contains oneor more electrolytes and water).

[0036] Examples of electrolytes include, but are not limited to,pharmaceutically acceptable organic and organic salts and buffers.Examples of salts include, but are not limited to, chloride salts (suchas sodium chloride, potassium chloride, lithium chloride, calciumchloride, strontium chloride, magnesium chloride or other chloridesalts), as well as salts of sodium, potassium, lithium, calcium,magnesium, strontium, fluoride, iodide, bromide. Examples of buffersinclude, but are not limited to, phosphates, citrates, acetates,lactates, and borates In one embodiment, the electrolyte is an activeagent, or becomes an active agent after the passage of the electriccurrent through the carrier. Examples of such electrolyte-active agentsinclude, but are not limited to, salicylic acid, salicylates, and otherweak acid or weak base active agents.

[0037] In one embodiment, the carrier contains water. In a furtherembodiment, the carrier may also contains one or more organic solvents.Examples of organic solvents include, but are not limited to: dimethylisosorbide; isopropylmyristate; surfactants of cationic, anionic andnonionic nature; vegetable oils; mineral oils; waxes; gums; syntheticand natural gelling agents; alkanols; glycols; and polyols.

[0038] Examples of glycols include, but are not limited to, glycerin,propylene glycol, butylene glycol, pentalene glycol, hexylene glycol,polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, diethylene glycol,triethylene glycol, glycerol, and hexanetriol, and copolymers ormixtures thereof. Examples of alkanols include, but are not limited to,those having from about 2 carbon atoms to about 12 carbon atoms (e.g.,from about 2 carbon atoms to about 4 carbon atoms), such as isopropanoland ethanol. Examples of polyols include, but are not limited to, thosehaving from about 2 carbon atoms to about 15 carbon atoms (e.g.,from,about 2 carbon atoms to about 10 carbon atoms) such as propyleneglycol.

[0039] The organic solvents may be present in the carrier in an amount,based upon the total weight of the carrier, of from about 1 percent toabout 90 percent (e.g., from about 5 percent to about 50 percent). Watermay be present in the carrier (prior to use) in an amount, based uponthe total weight of the carrier, of from about 5 percent to about 95percent (e.g., from about 50 percent to about 90 percent).

[0040] The carrier may also contain: preservatives (such as cresol,chlorocresol, benzyl alcohol, methyl p-hydroxylbenzoate, propylp-hydroxybenzoate, phenol, thimerosal, benzalkonium chloride,benzethonium chloride, and phenylmercuric nitrate); stabilizing agentsor antioxidants (such as ascorbic acid, ascorbic acid esters,butylhydroxy anisole, butylhydroxy toluene, cysteine, N-acetylcysteine,sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, sodium formaldehydesulfoxylate,acetone sodium bisulfite, tocopherols, and nordihydroguaiaretic acid);chelating agents (such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and itssalts); buffers (such as acetic acid, citric acid, phosphoric acid,glutamic acid, and salts thereof); and tonicity adjusting agents (suchas sodium chloride, sodium sulfate, dextrose and glycerin).

[0041] In one embodiment, the carrier may also contain a suspendingmaterial and/or a fluid-absorbing material (e.g., for physicallystabilizing the ingredients of the carrier). Examples of suspendingmaterials include, but are not limited to: cotton-based gauze; non-wovenpads made of rayon or a mixture of rayon, polyester and/or other polymerfibers; open-cell foam and sponge-like materials contained ofpolyurethane, polyester and/or other polymers; and cross-linked andnoncross-linked gelling materials, such as polyacrylamide, polyvinylalcohol, gelatin, hydroxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose,hydroxypropylcellulose, methylcellulose, and carboxymethylcellulose.

[0042] Examples of fluid-absorbing material include, but are not limitedto: cross-linked and non-cross-linked polymers; swellable polymers suchas water-swollen cellulose derivatives (e.g., methylcellulose (MC),hydroxyethyl methylcellulose (HEMA), hydroxypropyl methylkcellulose(HPMC), ethylhydroxyethyl cellulose (EHEC), hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC),hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), and carboxymethlcellulose (CMC) and theirsalts); polyvinyl alcohol (PVA); polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP);polyethylene oxide (PEO); polymers prepared by monomers such ashydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), hydroxyethoxyethyl emthacrylate(HEEMA), hydroxydiethoxyethl methacrylate (HDEEMA), methyoxyethylmethacrylate (MEMA), methoxyethoxyethyl methacrylate (MEEMA),methyldiethoxyethyl methacrylate (MDEEMA), ethylene glycoldimethacrylate (EGDMA), n-vinyl-2pyrrolidone (NVP), methacrylic acid(MA), and vinyl acetate (VAC); polycrylamide; gelatin; gums andpolysaccharides such as gum arabic, gum karaya, gum tragacanth, guargum, gum benzoin, and alginic acid and their salts; polyethylene glycol(PEG); polypropylene glycol (PPG); and clays or other swellable mineralssuch as bentonite and montmorillonite. The amount of fluid absorbablematerial in the carrier may range from about 0.1% to about 95%, byweight, such as from about 1% to about 20%, by weight, of the carrier.

[0043] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed topairing one or more inert conductive electrodes in order toelectrochemically generate oxidizing or reducing agents fromelectrochemically reactive materials in situ in the carrier. Suchoxidizing or reducing agents can be used as active agents to treatbarrier membrane conditions.

[0044] Examples of the electrochemically reactive materials in thecarrier according to the present invention include, but are not limitedto, water and compounds containing the elements selected from thePeriodic Table of the Elements VIB and VIIB (such as oxygen, sulfur,fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and iodine).

[0045] In one embodiment, the reactive material reacts with the inertanode to form an oxidizing agent. Examples of such a reactive materialincludes, but is not limited to, the ions OH , Cl⁻, I⁻, Br⁻, SO₃ ²⁻, andHCO₃ ⁻. The present device, thus, enables to generation of oxidizingagents, such as nascent oxygen (e.g., singlet oxygen), chlorine andchlorine dioxide gases, which are difficult to formulate in aconventional topical product.

[0046] In one embodiment, the reactive material reacts with the inertcathode to form reducing agent. Examples of such a reactive materialincludes, but is not limited to, oxidized or disulfide forms ofthio-compounds with one or more sulfhydryl functional groups,thio-containing amino acids and their salts or esters, and sulfides.Examples of such thio-compounds include, but are not limited to:thioglycolic acid and its salts, such as thioglycolates of calcium,sodium, strontium, potassium, ammonium, lithium, magnesium, and othermetal salts; thioethylene glycol; thioglycerol; thioethanol; thioacticacid; and thiosalicylic acid; and their salts. Examples of thethio-containing amino acids include, but are not limited to, L-cysteine,D-cysteine, DL-cysteine, N-acetyl-L-cysteine, DL-homocysteine,L-cysteine methyl ester, L-cysteine ethyl ester, N-carbamoyl cysteine,glutathione, and cysteamine. Examples of sulfides, include but are notlimited to, calcium, sodium, potassium, lithium and strontium sulfidesand glutathione disulfide. The inert cathode converts the aforementionedreactive oxidized or disulfide form of a sulfur-containing compound to athio-containing compound, or a sulfydryl-containing compound. Examplesof such a conversion is the conversion of cystine to cysteine and theconversion of the oxidized form of glutathione to glutathione.

[0047] In one embodiment, the concentration of the reactive material inthe carrier may range from about 0.01% to about 25%, by weight, such asfrom about 0.1% to about 10%, by weight, of the carrier. The pH value ofthe carrier may range from about pH 1.5 to about pH 9, preferably frompH 2 to pH 7, and most preferably from about pH 3 to pH 5.

[0048] In one embodiment, the carrier contains an adhesive. The adhesiveis used to affix the device to the barrier membrane. Examples ofhydrophobic adhesives include, but are not limited to, silicones,polyisobutylenes and derivatives thereof, acrylics, natural rubbers, andcombinations thereof. Examples of silicone adhesives include, but arenot limited to, Dow Corning 355 available from Dow Corning of Midland,Mich.; Dow Corningo X7-2920; Dow Corning X7-2960; and GE 6574 availablefrom General Electric Company of Waterford, N.Y. Examples of acrylicadhesives include, but are not limited to, vinyl (D acetate-acrylate)multipolymers such as Gelva 7371, available from Monsanto Company of St.Louis, Mo.; Gelvao 7881; Gelva 2943; and 1-780 medical grade adhesiveavailable from Avery Dennison of Painesville, Ohio. Examples ofhydrophilic adhesives include, but are not limited to, gum papaya andother natural gums, MC, HEMA, HPMC, EHEC, HEC, HPC, CMC, PAV, PVP, PEO,HEMA, HEEMA, HDEEMA, MEMA, MEEMA, MDEEMA, EGDMA, NVP MA, VAC,polycrylamide. getatins, gum arabic, gum karaya, gum tragacanth, guargum, gum benzoin, and alginic acid and their salts, polyethylene glycol(PEG), and polypropylene glycol (PPG).

[0049] In one embodiment, the concentration of the adhesive in thecarrier may range from about 0.1% to about 95%, by weight, such as fromabout 1% to about 20%, by weight, of the carrier.

[0050] Electrodes

[0051] The conductive electrodes of the present invention may be areactive conductive electrodes or inert conductive electrodes. What ismeant by a “reactive conductive electrode” is that the conductiveelectrode itself goes through a change in its chemical compositionduring the electrode chemical reactions occurring with the electriccurrent passing through the electrode during the process. In oneembodiment, the reactive conductive electrode is made of reactivematerials such as metal halides (e.g., silver-silver chloride (Ag/AgCl),silver-silver bromide, and silver-silver iodide). In this case, theprimary electrochemical reaction at the cathode surface is conversion ofsolid silver halide to metallic silver with little unwanted consumptionof the oxidizing agents generated by the anode. The released halide ionsmay be subsequently oxidized to oxidizing agents, such as chloride ionsto chlorine (Cl₂), hypochlorous acid (HClO), and hypochlorite ions(ClO⁻), and iodide ions to iodine.

[0052] What is meant by an “inert conductive electrode” is that theconductive electrode itself does not go through a change in its chemicalcomposition. In one embodiment, the anode is made of an inert conductiveelectrode, so that the electrochemical process at the surface of theanode generates oxidizing agents such as nascent oxygen (e.g., byelectrolysis of water) and/or chlorine-containing oxidizing agents suchas chlorine, hypochlorite, chlorate and perchlorate, and chlorinedioxide. Nascent oxygen is an oxidizing agent that is inhibitive to P.acnes, and chlorine-containing oxidizing agents are potent antimicrobialagent with bacteriacidal activity.

[0053] In one embodiment, the inert conductive electrode is made of, orcoated on the surface with, an inert materials such as noble metals(e.g., gold, platinum, or gold-coated conductive metals), conductivecarbon (e.g., glassy carbon or graphite), carbon-embedded polymers(e.g., carbon silicone rubbers), conductive carbon polymer foam orsponge, silver halide-coated silver (e.g., silver chloride-coatedsilver, silver bromide-coated silver, and silver iodide-coated silver),and corrosive resistant alloys.

[0054] Active Agents

[0055] In one embodiment, the carrier contains one or more activeagents. What is meant by an “active agent” is a compound (e.g., asynthetic compound or a compound isolated from a natural source) thathas a cosmetic or therapeutic effect on the barrier membrane.

[0056] In one embodiment, the carrier contains an anti-acne and/oranti-rosacea agent. Examples of anti-acne and anti-rosacea agentsinclude, but are not limited to: retinoids such as tretinoin,isotretinoin, motretinide, adapalene, tazarotene, azelaic acid, andretinol; salicylic acid; benzoyl peroxide; resorcinol; sulfur;sulfacetamide; urea; antibiotics such as tetracycline, metronidazole,and erythromycin; anti-inflammatory agents such as corticosteroids(e.g., hydrocortisone), ibuprofen, naproxen, and hetprofen; andimidazoles such as ketoconazole and elubiol; and salts, esters, andother derivatives thereof. Other examples of anti-acne active agentsinclude essential oils, alpha-bisabolol, dipotassium glycyrrhizinate,camphor, □-glucan, allantoin, feverfew, flavonoids such as soyisoflavones, saw palmetto, chelating agents such as EDTA, lipaseinhibitors such as silver and copper ions, hydrolyzed vegetableproteins, inorganic ions of chloride, iodide, fluoride, and theirnonionic derivatives chlorine, iodine, fluorine, and other valences,synthetic phospholipids and natural phospholipids such as Arlasilk™phospholipids CDM, SV, EFA, PLN, and GLA (Uniqema, ICI Group ofCompanies, Wilton, UK).

[0057] In one embodiment, the device of the present invention containsan anti-aging agent. Examples of suitable anti-aging agents include, butare not limited to: inorganic sunscreens such as titanium dioxide andzinc oxide; organic sunscreens such as octyl-methoxy cinnamates;retinoids; vitamins such as vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitaminB and vitamin salts or derivatives such as ascorbic acid di-glucosideand vitamin E acetate or palmitate; alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolicacid, citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, mandelic acid, ascorbicacid, alpha-hydroxybutyric acid, alpha-hydroxyisobutyric acid,alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid, atrrolactic acid, alpha-hydroxyisovalericacid, ethyl pyruvate, galacturonic acid, glucoheptonic acid,glucoheptono 1,4-lactone, gluconic acid, gluconolactone, glucuronicacid, glucuronolactone, isopropyl pyruvate, methyl pyruvate, mucic acid,pyruvic acid, saccharic acid, saccaric acid 1,4-lactone, tartaric acid,and tartronic acid; beta hydroxy acids such as beta-hydroxybutyric acid,beta-phenyl-lactic acid, and beta-phenylpyruvic acid; and botanicalextracts such as green tea, soy, milk thistle, algae, aloe, angelica,bitter orange, coffee, goldthread, grapefruit, hoellen, honeysuckle,Job's tears, lithospermum, mulberry, peony, puerarua, nice, andsafflower; and salts, esters, and other derivatives thereof.

[0058] In one embodiment, the carrier contains a depigmentation agent.Examples of suitable depigmentation agents include, but are not limitedto: soy extract; soy isoflavones; retinoids such as retinol; kojic acid;kojic dipalmitate; hydroquinone; arbutin; transexamic acid; vitaminssuch as niacin and vitamin C; azelaic acid; linolenic acid and linoleicacid; placertia; licorice; and extracts such as chamomile and green tea;and salts, esters, and other derivatives thereof.

[0059] In one embodiment, the carrier contains a plant extract. Examplesof plant extracts include, but are not limited to, feverfew, soy,glycine soja, oatmeal, what, aloe vera, cranberry,hazel witch, alnus,arnica, artemisia capillaris, asiasarum root, birrh, calendula,chamomile, cnidium, comfrey, fennel, galla rhois, hawthorn, houttuynia,hypericum, jujube, kiwi, licorice, magnolia, olive, peppermint,philodendron, salvia, sasa albo-marginata, natural or syntheticisoflavonoids, soy isoflavones, natural or synthetic essential oils.

[0060] In one embodiment, the carrier contains metals such as metal ionsor fine powders. Examples of such metals include, but are not limitedto, gold, silver, copper, zinc.

[0061] Other active agents include those commonly used as for topicaltreatment and in cosmetic treatment of skin tissues, such as topicalantibiotics for wounds, topical antifungal drugs to treat fungalinfections of the skin and nails, and antipsoriatic drugs to treatpsoriatic lesions of the skin and psoriatic nails.

[0062] Examples of antifungal drugs include but are not limited tomiconazole, econazole, ketoconazole, sertaconazole, itraconazole,fluconazole, voriconazole, clioquinol, bifoconazole, terconazole,butoconazole, tioconazole, oxiconazole, sulconazole, saperconazole,clotrimazole, undecylenic acid, haloprogin, butenafine, tolnaftate,nystatin, ciclopirox olamine, terbinafine, amorolfine, naftifine,elubiol, griseofulvin, and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts. Inone embodiment, the antifungal drugs are an azole, an allylamine, or amixture thereof.

[0063] Examples of antibiotics (or antiseptics) include but are notlimited to mupirocin, neomycin sulfate bacitracin, polymyxin B,1-ofloxacin, tetracyclines (chlortetracycline hydrochloride,oxytetracycline-10 hydrochloride and tetrachcycline hydrochoride),clindamycin phsphate, gentamicin sulfate, metronidazole,hexylresorcinol, methylbenzethonium chloride, phenol, quaternaryammonium compounds, tea tree oil, and their pharmaceutically acceptablesalts.

[0064] Examples of antimicrobials include but are not limited to saltsof chlorhexidine, such as lodopropynyl butylcarbamate, diazolidinylurea, chlorhexidene digluconate, chlorhexidene acetate, chlorhexideneisethionate, and chlorhexidene hydrochloride. Other cationicantimicrobials may also be used, such as benzalkonium chloride,benzethonium chloride, triclocarbon, polyhexamethylene biguanide,cetylpyridium chloride, methyl and benzothonium chloride. Otherantimicrobials include, but are not limited to: halogenated phenoliccompounds, such as 2,4,4′,-trichloro-2-hydroxy diphenyl ether(Triclosan); parachlorometa xylenol (PCMX); and short chain alcohols,such as ethanol, propanol, and the like. In one embodiment, the alcoholis preferably at a low concentration (e.g., less than about 10% byweight of the carrier, such as less than 5% by weight of the carrier) sothat it does not cause undue drying of the barrier membrane.

[0065] Examples of antipsoriatic drugs or drugs for seborrheicdermatitis treatment include, but are not limited to, corticosteroids(e.g., betamethasone dipropionate, betamethasone valerate, clobetasolpropionate, diflorasone diacetate, halobetasol propionate,triamcinonide, dexamethasone, fluocinonide, fluocinolone acetonide,halcinonide, triamcinolone acetate, hydrocortisone, hydrocortisonevenerate, hydrocortisone butyrate, aclometasone dipropionte,flurandrenolide, mometasone furoate, methylprednisolone acetate),methotrexate, cyclosporine, calcipotriene, anthraline, shale oil andderivatives thereof, elubiol, ketoconazole, coal tar, salicylic acid,zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, hydrocortisone, sulfur, menthol, andpramoxine hydrochloride, and salts, esters, and other derivativesthereof. Examples of anti-viral agent, include, but are not limited to,imiquimod and its derivatives, podofilox, podophyllin, interferon alpha,acyclovir, famcyclovir, valcyclovir, reticulos and cidofovir.

[0066] Examples of anti-inflammatory agent, include, but are not limitedto, suitable steroidal anti-inflammatory agents such as corticosteroidssuch as hydrocortisone, hydroxyltriamcinolone alphamethyl dexamethasone,dexamethasone-phosphate, beclomethasone dipropionate, clobetasolvalerate, desonide, desoxymethasone, desoxycorticosterone acetate,dexamethasone, dichlorisone, diflorasone diacetate, diflucortolonevalerate, fluadrenolone, fluclarolone acetonide, fludrocortisone,flumethasone pivalate, fluosinolone acetonide, fluocinonide, flucortinebutylester, fluocortolone, fluprednidene (fluprednylidene)acetate,flurandrenolone, halcinonide, hydrocortisone acetate, hydrocortisonebutyrate, methylprednisolone, triamcinolone acetonide, cortisone,cortodoxone, flucetonide, fludrocortisone, difluorosone diacetate,fluradrenalone acetonide, medrysone, amciafel, amcinafide, betamethasoneand the balance of its esters, chlorprednisone, chlorprednisone acetate,clocortelone, clescinolone, dichlorisone, difluprednate, flucloronide,flunisolide, fluoromethalone, fluperolone, fluprednisolQne,hydrocortisone valerate, hydrocortisone cyclopentylproprionate,hydrocortamate, meprednisone, paramethasone, prednisolone, prednisone,beclomethasone dipropionate, betamethasone dipropionate, andtriamcinolone. The preferred steroidal anti-inflammatory for use in thepresent invention is hydrocortisone. A second class of anti-inflammatoryagents which is useful in the compositions of the present inventionincludes the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents.

[0067] Other active agents include, but are not limited to, woundhealing enhancing agent, scar reducing agents, analgesic agents,anesthetics, hair growth enhancing agents such as minoxadil,antihypertensives, drugs to treat coronary artery diseases, anticanceragents, endocrine and metabolic medication, neurologic medications,medication for cessation of chemical additions, motion sickness, andprotein and peptide drugs.

[0068] The amount of the active agent in the carrier will depend on theactive agent and/or the intended use of the device. In one embodiment,the carrier contains a safe and effective amount of the active agent,for example, from about 0.001 percent to about 20 percent, by weight,such as from about 0.01 percent to about 5 percent, by weight, of thecarrier.

[0069] Light Emitting Diode

[0070] In one embodiment, the device contains one or more light emittingdiodes. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) of certain spectrum may beincorporated into the device to emit light to the barrier membrane(e.g., to treat skin conditions such as acne and rosacea). The lightemitting diode may also provide a signal to the user indicating that thedevice is operating properly.

[0071] The spectrum of the LED's according to the current invention mayrange from about 300 nm to about 1500 nm, such as from about 350 nm toabout 1000 nm. In one embodiment, the range of the LED includesviolet-blue, green, red, and infrared ranges, e.g., from about 400 nm toabout 450 nm such as from about 407 nm to about 420 nm; from about 510nm to about 550 nm; from about 600 nm to about 700 nm; and from about1300 nm to about 1500 nm. In one embodiment, the device contains twoLEDs, one that emits light having a wavelength of from about 400 nm toabout 500 nm and one which emits light from about 700 nm to about 1000nm.

[0072] Photosensitizer agents, such as 5-aminolaevulinic acid (ALA),hypericin, St. John's wort powder or extract, or other synthetic ornatural photosensitizer agents, may be incorporated into the carrier asactive agents to be delivered and irradiated by the device with LED's ofthe present invention. The light irradiation from the LED's, togetherwith the photosensitizer agent(s) and other aforementioned activeagents, electrochemically generated oxidizing agents (e.g., peroxides,nascent oxygen, chlorine dioxide, and chlorine), and/or electricstimulation of the barrier membrane may work synergistically to achievean improved efficacy in treating membrane disorders such as acne androsacea.

[0073] Use

[0074] In one embodiment, the device is used for the treatment of abarrier membrane condition (e.g., the delivery of an active agent,light, and/or electricity into the membrane such as the skin, vaginal,or rectal mucosa barrier membrane of a human). In one embodiment, thedevice is used for the treatment of skin conditions. Examples of suchtreatments include, but are not limited to: treatment of acne, rosacea,or other microbial infections of the skin; reduction the visible signsof skin aging (e.g., wrinkles, sagging, and age-spots); folliculitis andpseudo-folliculitis barbae; treatment of wounds and lesions (e.g.,enhancing healing and scar reduction); sebum regulations (e.g., sebumreduction or oily/shining skin appearance inhibition or control);pigmentation regulation (e.g., reduction of hyperpigmentation orpigmentation of light skin); hair growth retardation (e.g., skin on theleg) or hair stimulation (e.g., scalp); and treatment of dermatitis(e.g., atopic, contact, or seborrheic dermatitis) and/or psoriasis.

[0075] In another embodiment, the device is used for the treatment ofmucosal conditions. Examples of such treatments include, but are notlimited to: treatment of vaginal candidiasis and vaginosis, genitalherpes, and other microbial infections of the mucosa.

[0076] Another embodiment of the present invention is the device inducescertain desirable biological responses that facilitate the treatment ofthe barrier membrane conditions. These desirable biological responsesmay be induced by the electric current passage through the barriermembrane, and/or the electrochemically generated oxidizing materials,together with the active agents delivered by iontophoresis from thecarrier, in treating the barrier conditions. Examples of the desirableresponses of the barrier membrane may include, but are not limited to,sebum regulation (e.g., reduction of sebaceous gland activity),inhibition of anaerobotic microbial growth and establishment of ahealthier membrane microflora or (e.g, reduction of P. acne growth andof production of irritating fatty acids), blood vasoconstriction (thuspromoting local accumulation of active agents or removal of dark circleunder the eye due to deoxyhemoglobins), enhanced tissue immunologicalactivity (e.g, increased elimination of pathogenic microbes on tissue'sown defense systems), improved tissue repairing (e.g., enhanced healingand reduced scarring of lesions such as acne lesions), and improvedkeratolytic activity of the carrier (e.g., softening of keratin plugs ofcomedos in whiteheads and blackheads of acne, and facilitating theirremoval).

[0077] In another aspect, the invention also features the method ofconverting an active agent from a less active form to a more active formvia oxidation or reduction via an inert electrode (e.g., cystine tocysteine, disulfide acetyl-cysteine to acetyl-cysteine, and retinol toretinoic acid). Thus, an unstable agent can be stored in a more stableform and converted to its active form prior to administration. In afurther aspect, the generation of reducing agents by the device of thepresent invention can be used to stabilize oxygen-labile active agents.Examples of such oxygen-labile active agents include, but are notlimited to, retinoids, ascorbic acid, and benzoyl peroxide.

[0078] Shape

[0079] The device may be fabricated into various shapes and sizes to fitthe contours of various anatomical surfaces of the barrier membranes.For examples, it may be made as a whole facial mask with openings/holesto expose the eyes, eye bows, nose, and mouth; a partial facial maskcovering only the upper or lower half of the face; or a patch coveringonly the forehead, or the under eye region, the chin and jaw region, theneck, the back, wound, acne lesion or pimple, or other specific area ofa barrier membrane in need of treatment.

[0080] Devices

[0081] One embodiment of the present invention is representedschematically in FIG. 1. The device 500 contains a removable releaseliner 100, a carrier layer 120, a first conductive electrode 140, asecond conductive electrode 240, electric lead wires 110 and 210connecting the two poles of a battery 320 to the two oppositely chargedconductive electrodes, an electric power switch 330 located on the leadwire 220, a light emitting diode (LED) 122, a backing layer 160separating the carrier layer 120 from the battery 320, and a batterycover layer 340.

[0082] The gap “b” depicts the distance between two conductiveelectrodes 140 and 240 to the release liner (or the membrane followingapplication of the device), and the gap “a” represents the distancebetween two oppositely charged conductive electrodes. In one embodiment,the ratio of gap “a” to gap “b” is at least about 1, such as at leastabout 2 or at least about 5.

[0083] The backing layer 160 may be impermeable to the active agentcontained within the carrier layer 120, and is preferably not permeableto water or other solvents in the carrier layer 120. The battery 320 maybe encased in an electric insulating, water-impermeable polymer layer(not shown in the figure). The backing layer 160 and the batter coverlayer 340 may be made of flexible material that is impermeable to water,e.g., polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl acetate,polyurethane, silicone rubber, or polyvinyl chloride.

[0084] Optionally, there can be an electric circuit (not shown) indevice 500 to provide a constant current located between the battery 320and conductive electrode 140 and/or conductive electrode 240.

[0085] In a further embodiment, the backing layer 160 is permeable toelectrochemically generated gases (e.g., oxygen, chlorine, and hydrogen)in order to limit excess accumulation of the gases in the carrier whichcan cause tissue irritation and/or undesirable deformation of thedevice.

[0086] The carrier layer 120 is an adhesive hydrogel containing theactive agent. The active agent may be incorporated into the carrierlayer 120 as dissolved molecules and ions, dispersed solid particles, orliquid droplets such as cream, lotion, emulsion, multi-emulsion,microemulsion, and/or liposome compositions. The carrier layer 120 mayalso contain a solid supporting matrix (e.g., a gauze, non-woven orsponge-like material).

[0087] A removable liner sheet 100 covers the carrier layer 120. Theselection of the removable release-liner 100 is dependent on the type ofthe adhesive hydrogel used in carrier layer 120. The release liner sheet100 is typically a polymer sheet or a paper or fabric coated with apolymer, which has weak adhesion toward the adhesive hydrogel layer 120,thereby allowing it to be easily removed from the carrier layer 120prior to use without damaging the carrier layer 120. Examples of thepolymers typically used for the release liner 100 are silicones andpolyethylenes. Alternatively, a wax may be used in the place of thepolymer to coat the release liner 100.

[0088] In addition to, or in lieu of, the use of an adhesive in thecarrier layer 120, the device 500 may be fastened to the barriermembrane with an adhesive tape, an elastic band, a band with a buckle(similar to a leather watch band), or a Velcro® band.

[0089] In order to use device 500, the removable release liner sheet 100is peeled off, and the carrier hydrogel layer 120 of the device 500 isaffixed to a barrier membrane, such as the skin, vaginal, or rectalmucosa barrier membrane, of the user. The device may be directly affixedto the barrier membrane if the carrier layer 120 contains an adhesivehydrogel. An electric potential is applied across the conductiveelectrodes 140 and 240 by switching on the power switch 330. Anotherembodiment of the present invention is represented schematically in FIG.2. The battery 320 is located within the carrier layer 120. Theadvantage of this battery arrangement includes reduced bulkiness,enhanced esthetics and user comfort.

[0090] Another embodiment of the present invention is representedschematically in FIG. 3. Housing 170 contains an adhesive layer 130coated onto the rim of the housing 170 for affixing device 500 tomembrane during application. The housing 170 may be made of the samematerials as the backing layer 160 described above. The adhesive in theadhesive layer 130 may be a polymeric, pressure sensitive and/ornonconductive. Suitable adhesive materials include, but are not limitedto, silicones, polyisobutylenes and derivatives thereof, acrylics,natural rubbers, and combinations thereof. Suitable silicone adhesivesinclude, but are not limited to, Dow Corning 355 (available from DowCorning of Midland, Mich.); Dow Corning X7-2920; Dow Corning 0 X7-2960;GE 6574 (available from General Electric Company of Waterford, N.Y.);and silicone pressure sensitive adhesives. Suitable acrylic adhesivesinclude, but are not limited to, vinyl acetate-acrylate multipolymers,including, such as Gelva-7371 (available from Monsanto Company of St.Louis, Mo.); Gelva T 7881; Gelvac 2943; 1-780 medical grade adhesiveavailable from Avery Dennison of Painesville, Ohio; and acrylic pressuresensitive adhesives.

[0091] When a zinc air battery is used as the power source of the device500, the battery 320 is constructed in such a way that the orifice onthe stainless steel cover is facing the opposite side of the carrierlayer 120. An orifice is made on the battery cover layer to expose theorifice on the zinc air battery that is covered by a removableoxygen-impermeable cover. In this case, the power switch 230 is replacedby the removable oxygen-impermeable cover. The removableoxygen-impermeable cover can be used to begin (by removing it) or tohalt the electrotransport process of the device (by re-covering theorifice).

[0092] In one embodiment, the carrier layer 120 contains at least twoactive agents carrying opposite electric charges. One example of such acomposition is a composition containing from about 0.5 to about 2%salicylic acid and from about 0.01 to about 0.2% of a cationicquaternary ammonium antimicrobial agents (such as benzalkonium chloride,benzethonium chloride, methyl benzethonium chloride, and cetylpyridiniumchloride), phenol, and/or chlorhexidine gluconate. The device 500 of thepresent invention can simultaneously deliver both active agents ofopposite charges into the membrane.

[0093] The backing layer 160 may have some gas permeability, so called“breathable backing”. The examples of such “breathable backing” materialinclude, but are not limited to, a cotton or synthetic woven andnonwoven fabric layer, such as those fabric materials commonly used forbandages and sports bandages.

[0094] The lighting portion of the LED 122 is preferable located in thecarrier layer 120 in close proximity to the skin. Locating the lightsource in the carrier layer 120 affixed to the barrier membrane has anadvantage of minimizing the loss of light energy from reflection of skinsurface. In addition, a light reflective layer may be used as thebacking layer 160 (e.g., metalized polymer film) to further enhance theefficacy of phototherapy, and to achieve more homogeneous irradiation.The backing layer 160 may optionally be perforated as certain spots tomake the light visible to the user to serve as an indicator that thedevice is working normally.

[0095] FIGS 4 and 5 disclose one embodiment of the two differentconfigurations of conductive electrode 140 and 240 in carrier layer 120.

[0096] Another embodiment of the present invention is representedschematically in FIG. 6. The electrotransport device 800 containes twoelectrode assemblies 200 and 600, respective adhesive layers 230 and630, respective carrier layers 220 and 620, respective conductiveelectrodes 240 and 640, respective light emitting diodes 222 and 622,respective housings 270 and 670, respective electric leads 210 and 610,battery 320 and electric switch 330. Similar to the aforementionedtypical iontophoresis device, the two electrode assemblies 200 and 600are to be affixed to the barrier membrane with an electric insulationbetween them, after the release liner 100 is removed prior to use.

EXAMPLES

[0097] Examples of several carriers, including the weight percentagerange of the ingredients of such carriers, are set forth in Table 1.TABLE 1 Percent by Weight of the Carrier Component No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 No.4 No. 5 No. 6 Salicylic acid 0.1-10   2 2 0 0 0.1-10   Benzyl peroxide 00 0 0.5-10   0 0 Sulfur 0 0 0 0 3 3 Resorcinol 0 0 0 1 1 1 Benzalkoniumchloride 0-2    0.1   0.1 0-2  0-2  0-2  Benzethonium or 0-2  0 0 0-2 0-2  0-2  methylbezethonium chloride Cetylpyridium chloride 0-2    0.1  0.1 0-2  0-2  0-2  Phospholipid CDM 0-40 5 5 0-40 0-40 0-40 Hydrogenperoxide 0-30 0 3 0-30 0-30 0-30 Buffer (citrate, 0-10 2 2 0-10 0-100-10 lactate, or phosphate salts of sodium, potassium, or lithiumGelling agent 0-20 5 5 0-20 0-20 0-20 (e.g., polyacrylates, cellulose,natural or synthetic gums, or polyacrylamide) Chelating agent 0-2    0.1  0.1 0-2  0-2  0-2  (e.g., EDTA) Propylene glycol 0-30 20  15  0-300-30 0-30 Polyethylene 0-50 0 0 0-50 0-50 0-50 glycol Polypropylene 0-400 0 0-40 0-40 0-40 glycol Ethyl alcohol 0-50 0 15  0-50 0-50 0-50Isopropyl alcohol 0-50 0 0 0-50 0-50 0-50 Dimethyl 0-20 2 0 0-20 0-200-20 isosorbide Isopropyl 0-30 1 1 0-30 0-30 0-30 myristate Purifiedwater Qs to Qs to Qs to Qs to Qs Qs to 100 100 100 100 to 100 100

[0098] It is understood that while the invention has been described inconjunction with the detailed description thereof, that the foregoingdescription is intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of theinvention, which is defined by the scope of the appended claims. Otheraspects, advantages, and modifications are within the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of treating a skin condition, saidmethod comprising applying to said skin a device having a barriermembrane contacting surface that administers an oxidizing agent to saidbarrier membrane, wherein said device comprises: a power source; a firstconductive electrode, wherein said first conductive electrode is aninert anode; a second conductive electrode, wherein said secondconductive electrode is a cathode; and a carrier comprising water;wherein said power source is in electric communication with said firstconductive electrode and said second conductive electrode, wherein saidfirst conductive electrode is in ionic communication with said carrier,wherein said oxidizing agent is generated by electric current passingfrom the first conductive electrode through said carrier, and whereinsaid carrier is in communication with said barrier membrane contactingsurface.
 2. A method of claim 1, wherein said second conductiveelectrode is in ionic communication with said carrier.
 3. A method ofclaim 1, wherein said second conductive electrode is a reactiveelectrode.
 4. A method of claim 2, wherein said second conductiveelectrode is a reactive electrode.
 5. A method of claim 1, wherein saidoxidizing agent is nascent oxygen.
 6. A method of claim 2, saidoxidizing agent is nascent oxygen.
 7. A method of claim 1, wherein saiddevice comprises a housing and wherein said first conductive electrode,said second conductive electrode, and said carrier are within saidhousing.
 8. A method of claim 1, wherein said carrier is a semi-solidcomprising said first conductive electrode and said second conductiveelectrode.
 9. A method of claim 1, wherein said skin condition is acneor rosacea.
 10. A method of claim 1, wherein said carrier furthercomprises an active agent selected from the group consisting ofsalicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, a retinoid, and sulfur.11. A method of administering an oxidizing agent to a barrier membrane,said method comprising applying to said membrane a device having abarrier membrane contacting surface that administers said oxidizingagent to said barrier membrane, wherein said device comprises: a powersource; a first conductive electrode, wherein said first conductiveelectrode is an inert anode; a second conductive electrode, wherein saidsecond conductive electrode is a cathode; and a carrier comprisingwater; wherein said power source is in electric communication with saidfirst conductive electrode and said second conductive electrode, whereinsaid first conductive electrode is in ionic communication with saidcarrier, wherein said oxidizing agent is generated by electric currentpassing from the first conductive electrode through said carrier, andwherein said carrier is in communication with said barrier membranecontacting surface.
 12. A method of claim 11, wherein said secondconductive electrode is in ionic communication with said carrier.
 13. Amethod of claim 11, wherein said second conductive electrode is areactive electrode.
 14. A method of claim 12, wherein said secondconductive electrode is a reactive electrode.
 15. A method of claim 11,wherein said oxidizing agent is nascent oxygen.
 16. A method of claim12, wherein said oxidizing agent is nascent oxygen.
 17. A method ofclaim 11, wherein said device comprises a housing and wherein said firstconductive electrode, said second conductive electrode, and said carrierare within said housing.
 18. A method of claim 11, wherein said carrieris a semi-solid comprising said first conductive electrode and saidsecond conductive electrode.
 19. A method of claim 11, wherein saidcarrier further comprises an active agent selected from the groupconsisting of salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, a retinoid,and sulfur.
 20. A method of claim 11, wherein said active agent isselected from the group consisting of an anti-acne agent, ananti-rosacea agent, an anti-aging agent, a depigmentation agent, anantibiotic agent, an antifungal agent, an anti-psoriatic agent, anantimicrobial agent, an anti-viral agent, and an anti-inflammatoryagent.